How do I know if My Bird is Healthy?

It is a bird's natural instinct to try and hide it if they aren't feeling well.  In nature, this is a matter of survival. Unfortunately, once we notice any sign of illness it usually indicates that our bird has already been sick for some time.

Close and careful observation of your bird's behavior, eating habits, physical appearance and droppings will all provide clues and help you to determine quickly if your bird is not feeling well. Any deviation from your birds "normal daily routine" could indicate a problem.

Some things to watch out for include:

• Is your parrot eating and drinking it's normal amount each day?
• Is your parrot engaging in his normal level of activity (i.e., talking, singing, preening and playing)?
• Is your parrot remaining at the bottom of its cage?
• Is your parrot sleeping more than usual?
• Has your bird's physical appearance or posture changed?
• Are its feathers fluffed up for long periods without a reason (i.e., cold or sleeping)?
• Are its eyes partially closed or remaining closed the majority of the time?
• Is your parrot slumped on its perch or having difficulty in perching?
• Is your bird losing weight?
• Are your bird's droppings normal (i.e., color, shape, texture, volume and frequency) for your parrot?
• Does your parrot have difficulty breathing as indicated by open-mouthed breathing or tail bobbing?
• Do you hear sneezing, wheezing or clicking?
• Is there discharge from the cere "nose" or eyes?
• Are there any signs of swelling on your bird's body?
• Is there something out of the ordinary inside the cage (i.e., blood droplets)?

Notify your veterinarian immediately if you see any of the signs above. Early detection is the key to maintaining a healthy bird.